Wrist Pain

Wrist Pain

Wrist pain can be a debilitating condition that affects your daily activities, whether you’re wringing a towel, opening a door, or typing for extended periods. This section provides an in-depth look into the causes, symptoms, risk factors, and treatments available for wrist pain. Our experienced team is here to guide you through the diagnosis and treatment process, ensuring that you receive the most effective care to alleviate your pain and restore function to your wrist.

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Symptoms

Wrist pain can vary depending on the cause and severity of the condition.

Pain or Tenderness

Pain that may be sharp or aching, typically worsened by movement or pressure.

Swelling around the wrist joint, often indicating an injury or inflammation.

Difficulty in gripping objects or reduced strength in the hand.

Limited range of motion in the wrist, making it difficult to bend or extend the wrist.

If the median nerve is compressed, you may experience numbness or tingling in the thumb, index, and middle fingers (commonly associated with carpal tunnel syndrome).

Causes

Wrist pain is commonly caused by repetitive stress injuries, changes after pregnancy, changes after menopause, and activities related to sports. These repetitive motions can strain the tendons and ligaments, leading to inflammation and pain.

  • Repetitive Stress Injuries: Caused by repetitive wrist movements, often related to typing, knitting, or sports.
  • Hormonal Changes: Changes due to pregnancy or menopause can affect the tendons and ligaments, leading to pain and discomfort.
  • Injuries: Fractures, sprains, or dislocations from falls or trauma can result in wrist pain.

Risk Factors

Certain activities and conditions increase the likelihood of developing wrist pain.

  • Repetitive Movements: Activities like typing, carrying heavy objects, or sports involving wrist motion increase the risk of wrist pain.
  • Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy and menopause can lead to conditions like De Quervain’s tenosynovitis.
  • Sports Injuries: Participation in sports that require frequent wrist movements, such as tennis or weightlifting, increases the risk of injury.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing wrist pain typically involves a combination of physical assessments and imaging tests.

  • Physical Examination: Checking for swelling, tenderness, and range of motion limitations.
  • Nerve Conduction Studies: Used to identify conditions like De Quervain’s tenosynovitis or carpal tunnel syndrome.
  • X-rays: Used to detect fractures or bone misalignments.
  • MRI or Ultrasound: Imaging tests to assess soft tissues, such as tendons and ligaments, for tears or inflammation.

Treatments Provided By Us

Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation following wrist injury or surgery is essential for restoring function and strength.

  • Physical Therapy or Physiotherapy: Exercises to improve range of motion, strength, and flexibility.
  • Occupational Therapy: Focused on helping patients regain the ability to perform daily tasks, especially if fine motor skills are affected.
  • Gradual Return to Activity: Under the guidance of a healthcare provider, patients can slowly return to normal activities once they regain strength and mobility.

Complications

If left untreated, wrist pain can lead to chronic conditions such as tendinopathies like De Quervain’s tenosynovitis or carpal tunnel syndrome. These conditions may significantly impact daily activities and require more intensive treatments if not addressed early.

  • Chronic Pain: Persistent wrist pain can interfere with daily activities and require long-term treatment.
  • Limited Mobility: Untreated conditions may lead to stiffness and loss of range of motion.
  • Nerve Damage: In cases like carpal tunnel syndrome, untreated nerve compression can lead to permanent damage and muscle weakness.
  • Recurrent Injuries: Without proper treatment and rehabilitation, there is a risk of re-injury, especially in cases involving repetitive stress injuries.

Prevention Methods

To prevent wrist pain:

  • Ergonomic Adjustments: Modify workspaces or tools to reduce strain on the wrist.
  • Specific Exercises: Perform exercises designed to strengthen the wrist and forearm muscles.
  • Minimise Repetitive Stress: Take frequent breaks and use proper technique when performing repetitive activities like typing or sports.

When To See A doctor

If pain persists after 2 weeks, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional. Persistent pain could indicate an underlying issue that requires medical evaluation and treatment.

 

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